BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN SWITZERLAND

Verbier

Verbier, situé en Suisse, est reconnu comme une destination exceptionnelle pour le parapente, offrant des conditions de vol thermique même en hiver. La région propose un décollage préparé juste à c ...

Salève

Why go to Le Salève near Geneva

Le Salève, located just across the border in France near Geneva, Switzerland, is a prime destination for paragliding enthusiasts. Known as the "Balcony of Ge ...

Rinderberg

Altitude: 1910-1920 m This site is rarely used. It offers soaring opportunities and the possibility of a small cross-country flight. The landing area is at an airfield, but it is not an official landing site. Please consult with the flight traffic controller or local pilots for landing approach details. For more information, visit: [GCGstaad Flight Areas](http://www.gcgstaad.ch/fluggebiete/) Takeoff: Takeoff Window: Orientation: East Difficulty: Easy Altitude: 2000 m Cable Car: Yes Coordinates: 7.36241641, 46.51027847 Hiking Time: 5 minutes From Zweisimmen, take the gondola to Rinderberg. From there, it's a short walk to the takeoff site. The takeoff area is a steep, ideal meadow.

Rinderberg

At an elevation of 2006 meters, this paragliding site in Switzerland offers a variety of flying experiences, including regular use, soaring, and cross-country (XC) possibilities. The thermal connection is possible in the spring, and landings are typically made at the Zweisimmen airfield. Be cautious not to lose altitude over the village due to the presence of gliders. For more information, visit: [Gliding Club Gstaad](http://www.gcgstaad.ch/fluggebiete/) [Gliding Club Obersimmental](http://www.gcobersimmental.ch/joom/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=19&Itemid=42) Description: Launches can be made from Rinderberg towards the west and northeast. In summer, you can also launch towards the south by walking 5 minutes downhill towards St. Stephan. The site is less favorable with southwest winds coming directly from the summit. Similar to Mülkerblatte Lenk, it is best flown in the early morning. Access: The gondola provides direct access to both launch sites. Important: The flying area is within the control zone of the Zweisimmen airfield. Obtaining takeoff permission via phone at +41 33 722 25 77 is essential. During summer, the airfield is busy with gliders (glider camps). The gliders' circling area is above the village. Wind Direction: Suitable for almost all wind directions, except for southern winds. West launches are possible and can be done in the afternoon. Landing Zone: Currently, landings at the airfield are not permitted. Exceptions can only be granted by the airfield manager or their deputy (PPR is mandatory for everyone).

Marécottes

At an elevation of 2174 meters, this site is rarely used for paragliding. Launching is done from the piste, and cross-country flights are possible. During the winter, a lift operates, making access easier. There is also a nearby hut where you can take a break and enjoy some refreshments.

La Baye

Takeoff Site: Takeoff Window: Orientation: Southeast Difficulty: Easy Altitude: 2080 meters Cable Car: No Coordinates: 7.11559286, 46.16890887 Hiking Time: 30 minutes Access: Drive from Fully via Chibo, Randonne to l'Erié. From there, walk to the takeoff site (via the reservoir). The takeoff area is a moderately steep meadow. No flight logs found.

La Marmotte

At an altitude of 1924 meters, this launch site is occasionally used by hang gliders and rarely by paragliders. Cross-country flights are possible from here. This site serves as an alternative launch spot in the spring when the access road to Croix de Coeur is still covered in snow.

Mauborget

Mauborget, located above Lake Neuchatel in the Jura region of Switzerland, is a highly frequented paragliding site known for its excellent thermals and soaring conditions. This site is ideal for both beginners and those looking to practice cross-country (XC) flights. The take-off area is spacious, comfortable, and easy to use. The take-off point is at an elevation of 1176 meters, facing South, South-East, and East. It is accessible by car or public transport, with a short 5-minute walk from Mauborget to the take-off area, which is a large meadow. Coordinates for the take-off are 6.61188, 46.85425. The region offers stunning views over Lake Neuchatel and the Alps, making it a perfect spot for both paragliding and hang gliding. After take-off, pilots typically fly right along the Jura towards Le Suchet, but thermals also form over the flatlands towards Lake Neuchatel. The site is beginner-friendly and also suitable for training purposes. However, during the vegetation period, pilots should be mindful of agricultural areas and avoid walking unnecessarily in tall grass. If approached by a farmer, it is important to remain polite and respectful, even if they are upset. There is no cable car available, but the site is easily reachable by car or public transport. From Yverdon-les-Bains, take a bus (check the SBB timetable) which stops a few minutes from the take-off area. There is also a bus stop near the landing area, though buses do not run frequently. For those driving, you can park at the landing site in Fiez and take a shuttle from the paragliding school to the take-off area on weekends. Alternatively, some pilots choose to park at the top and land back at the take-off point. The Paral'Aile Café Mauborget, located at the take-off area at 1180 meters, offers a unique infrastructure with friendly staff. Each table in the restaurant has binoculars for watching fellow pilots in the air. The café also provides accommodation. For more information, visit: - [Vol Libre Mauborget](http://www.vol-libre.ch/region-du-suchet/#mauborget) - [Vol Libre Suchet](http://www.vol-libre-suchet.ch/modules/wfsection/article.php?articleid=5)  Contact: Vaingnedroye Jean-Baptiste Route de Sainte – Croix CH / 1453 Mauborget Tel/Fax: 024 436 10 20 Email: jeanba2@bluewin.ch

Click to watch video

Click to watch video

Click to watch video

Fouly

This paragliding site, with an altitude range of 2125-2275 meters, is rarely used. It is primarily suitable for afternoon soaring. Access to the launch site is facilitated by a chairlift. For more details on flights from this location, you can check out these links: [Flight 1](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2888158) [Flight 2](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2888149)

Alpage de Randonne

At an approximate altitude of 2150 meters, this location is rarely used for paragliding. It is suitable for hike and fly activities and offers the possibility for cross-country (XC) flights. There are numerous launch options available.

Breyaz _Champex

At an elevation of 2056 meters, this site in Switzerland is frequently used and offers excellent cross-country (XC) flying opportunities. It was once one of the launch sites for the Montblanc-Days, known for its impressive thermal heights. However, flying over Montblanc is now prohibited, so make sure to check the current airspace regulations before planning your flight. The site record stands at 33.8 km, showcasing its potential for long-distance flights. Always verify the latest airspace information to ensure a safe and legal flying experience.

Alphubel

This location offers an extreme hike and fly experience, with a significant emphasis on hiking and less on flying. The altitude reaches up to 4175 meters, making it a challenging adventure suitable for experienced paragliders who enjoy strenuous physical activity. For more details on specific flights and experiences, you can check out these links: [Flight 1](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2630128) [Flight 2](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2630107)

Grand Chavalard

This paragliding site, situated at an elevation of 2004 meters, is rarely used. It offers opportunities for hike and fly, and cross-country (XC) flights are possible. The site record stands at 75.6 km. The region is not specified but is located in Switzerland.

Croix de Coeur

Located in the Valais region of Switzerland, this paragliding site offers an excellent launch point for flights in the Wallis area. The site is easily accessible, even for hang gliders, with a good road leading up to it. There is a restaurant at the launch site, Le Carrefour, where you can obtain a key for access behind the start barrier from Philippe Bernard. For more information, visit: [Le Carrefour](http://www.lecarrefour.ch) The launch site is situated at an altitude of 2200 meters and faces south, making it an easy takeoff spot. The coordinates are 7.2310062, 46.12195328, and it takes about 10 minutes to reach on foot from the parking area. The terrain is moderately steep with some bushes. Verbier is a renowned destination for paragliding pilots, offering various launch and landing sites. It's advisable to get a proper briefing before starting your flight. Information boards are available at strategic locations. Flights from this site can take you to destinations like Val de Bagnes, Col de la Forclaz, or even Fiesch. However, be cautious of the glaciers to the south and the challenging conditions in the Rhone Valley. Afternoon thermals are usually good for soaring, and the area is known for its excellent thermal conditions for cross-country flights. In case of north wind conditions, it's better to stay in the hut and observe the weather developments. Summer brings strong valley winds, and the area is well-developed with various cables and obstacles to watch out for. For more details on the cable car, visit: [Verbier Cable Car](http://www.verbier.ch) or call +41 (0)27/775 25 11. The 'Centre de Parapente' by Claude Amman offers unique experiences like tandem flights with a helicopter from high-altitude alpine launch sites such as Petit Combin. These flights are extremely impressive. For more information, visit: [Fly Verbier](http://www.flyverbier.ch)

Mt. Arpille

At an elevation of 1842 meters, this site is primarily suited for walk & fly enthusiasts. There is limited information available, with only one flight log recorded. Cross-country flying is possible, but the site is not frequently used.

Sarreyer

This site is situated at an elevation of 1952 meters. It is infrequently used, but cross-country flights are possible from here. For more detailed information, please refer to the DHV website.

Savoleyeres 2

At an elevation of 2295 meters, this site offers a variety of alternative launch points suitable for both paragliding (PG) and hang gliding (HG). The multiple options for takeoff make it a versatile location for pilots. However, it is not among the most popular or frequently visited sites.

Cabane de Mille

At an elevation of 2480 meters, this site is occasionally used for walk & fly activities. It is primarily known for leisure flights, offering a serene and enjoyable experience. While it is not a top choice for cross-country (XC) flying, some XC flights are possible under the right conditions.

Saint-Cergue_Arzier_La Bosse_'les Burnes'

Located in Switzerland, this paragliding site offers a takeoff altitude of 1010 meters with a height difference of 350-470 meters. It is occasionally used and suitable for soaring and cross-country flights. Some pilots also list this site in French databases. Takeoff is oriented from southeast to southwest. It is not advisable to fly with winds exceeding 20 km/h. The best flying conditions are typically from 12:00 to 14:00 during the summer, with flyable conditions from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm if the prevailing wind is not too strong. For current wind conditions, you can check the 'The Dole' (DOL) weather station at 1670 meters: [MeteoSuisse](http://www.meteosuisse.admin.ch/web/fr/meteo/temps_actuel.par0023.allStations.html). Access to the site is via Les Rousses towards La Cure. After crossing the border towards St Cergue, turn left towards Arziet. Take the first right under the forest and then another right. Park the car before the chalet on the left side of the road, not in the parking lot. The journey takes about an hour from Claivaux. The site is known for its excellent thermals, making it a good spot for cross-country flights. The takeoff area is spacious, allowing multiple wings to be laid out simultaneously. However, be cautious of the nearby cliff. For landing, use the large field at the village entrance to the left of the takeoff. Note that the landing area is quite distant from the takeoff, so precision is required. If you descend below the rocky bar in front of the takeoff, head directly to the landing zone and hope for the best. There are no intermediate landing spots between the takeoff and the official landing area. Retrieval can be done by car or the small train. For more details, visit [CVLD St Cergue](http://www.cvld.ch/pages/sites-de-vol/sites-du-club/st-cergue-ou-la-bosse.html) and [Les Rousses Pole Air](http://lesrousses-poleair.chez-alice.fr/parapente/sites/st_cergue/st_cergue.html).

Vercorin

Mayens de l'Affe_Orsieres

At an elevation of 1327 meters and a height difference of approximately 350 meters, this launch site is rarely used. It offers good soaring conditions and the potential for excellent cross-country flights. This site serves as a beautiful alternative to Champex.

Signal de Soi

The take-off site is located at an elevation of 2040 meters and is rarely used. It is suitable for soaring flights. The launch area faces northwest and is considered easy in terms of difficulty. There is no cable car available to reach the site. The coordinates for the take-off location are 6.91537074, 46.18749977. To reach the take-off site, drive from Val d'Illiez to La Crete and Soi until you are approximately 150 meters below Signal de Soi. From there, it is a 20-minute walk to the launch area, which is a moderately steep meadow.